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When the X-Rider was originally introduced a year ago, it was just a limited edition of just over 700 units but it really touched a chord with South African bakkie fans selling out faster than you can say ‘hardcore’. Now,Isuzu is expanding the X-Rider model range with the new KB X-Rider which is returning as a permanent fixture in the line-up, offering enhanced value and stand out styling for customers.
South African consumers can now choose from 19 KB derivatives in three body types, the newest addition to the range officially badged as the KB 250 X-Rider 4×2 Double Cab.
The starting point is – as before – the high-output 2.5-litre power plant, which has done sterling service in the KB range since its September 2015 introduction as part of wider facelift. With 100 kW and 320Nm Nm, this common rail direct injection turbodiesel gives performance in keeping with the X-Rider’s sporty and recreational positioning.
At R388 400, the newcomer represents a unique blend of versatility and comfort – plus a soupcon of stand-out-from-the-crowd attitude.
The most obvious visual cues are stylish diamond-cut 18-inch alloys with their red “Isuzu” centre caps, the black bumper guard with integrated fog lamps, tubular side steps/sports bar combo in black with X-Rider decals, and the blacked out B-pillars. The wheels are shod with low-profile 255/50 Grabber AT all-terrain rubber. This domestic package is unique to the X-Rider.
“But the X-Rider isn’t just about purposeful and head-turning looks and it’ll deliver when called on to do so,” said Mlungisi Nkonyana, Isuzu Brand Manager.
There’s a heavy-duty tow bar as standard, giving the X-Rider a 2.1-tonne braked trailer towing capacity. And with peak torque kicking in at just 1 800 rpm (and remaining constant all the way to 2 800 rpm).
The interior, though, is most definitely not of the workhorse variety. Rather, it is where functionality and elegance come together in the interests of creating a comfortable and user-friendly environment. Features include:
- Full leather upholstery
- Leather steering wheel
- Leather gear-lever boot
- Piano Black door trim
- Piano Black trim on air vents, radio and front console
Adding a tasteful and stylish element is the liberal use of red stitching on the seats, steering wheel and gear-lever boot. The X-Rider insignia is embroidered on the front headrests, with a red ‘X’ in the same font also appearing on the door trims.
Remote keyless entry, satellite controls on the steering wheel, air conditioning and projector headlights with daytime running lights all contribute to car-like levels of comfort, convenience and safety.
Then there’s a choice of classy colours — Summit White, Switchblade Silver or Pull Me Over Red. But irrespective of the colour choice, buyers of the X-Rider will be getting a bakkie that stands out from the crowd.
All Isuzu KB models are sold with a fully-comprehensive 5-year/ 120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance programme, a 5-year/ unlimited mileage anti-corrosion warranty and a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are 15 000 km or twelve months for all derivatives.
